The classification of Tahitian pearls.
The most important thing and the first thing to understand about the classification of pearls is that, unlike diamonds, there is no standardized system. Each brand or company creates its own subjective system. So you should not take it into account to compare pearls from different companies.
The system described below refers to the surface of the pearls and their luster. Tahitian pearls can be found in a wide range of dark colors, these colors are accurately described on each product detail page.
The value of Tahitian pearls depends a lot on color and brightness, which is why we individually photograph all the necklaces we offer.
S&Y Signature
The Tahiti pearls that we categorize as S&Y Signature are exceptional pearls.
- Flawless surface, pearls show no blemishes or inclusions before being drilled and mounted.
- Excellent brightness.
AAA
- 90% clean surface of the pearl.
- Only 10% of the pearl may show slight concentrated imperfections.
- Only deep include is allowed.
- The mounted pearl should have a practically clean surface.
- The brightness is too high.
AA+
- 80% clean surface of the pearl.
- Only 20% of the pearl may show slight concentrated imperfections.
- Only deep include is allowed.
- The mounted pearl should have a fairly clean surface.
- The brightness is too high.
AA
- Clean surface in 70% of the pearl.
- Only 30% of the pearl may show slight concentrated imperfections.
- Only one or two deep inclusions are allowed.
- The mounted pearl should have a fairly clean surface.
- The brightness is between high and very high.
A+
- Clean surface on 40% of the pearl.
- Up to 60% of the pearl may show slight concentrated imperfections.
- Deep inclusions are limited to 10% of the pearl.
- The brightness is between medium and high.
A
- 60% of the pearl shows imperfections.
- Deep inclusions and white spots in a maximum of 20% of the pearl.
- The brightness goes from low to quite high.
Tahitian pearls that do not meet the minimum of classification A or that do not have a mother-of-pearl of at least 0.8 mm thickness do not pass the mandatory examination carried out by the "Ministere de la Perliculture de Tahiti" and by therefore they cannot be exported and are destroyed.